Whatever you want to achieve in New Zealand, our aim is to ensure that you understand the entire process from start to finish, allowing you to cut through the jargon and red tape to realise your dream of living in New Zealand.
If you are planning to live in New Zealand for more than three months to start, manage, or invest in a business, you are required to obtain a residence-class visa before entering the country. The New Zealand Entrepreneur Work Visa offers experienced business owners and investors a unique pathway to establish or acquire innovative businesses in New Zealand, with the potential to progress to permanent residency.
Eligible Sectors (Limited to Innovative, High-Impact Industries)
To qualify under the New Zealand Entrepreneur Work Visa, your business must demonstrate a high likelihood of contributing positively to New Zealand’s economy. Immigration New Zealand prioritizes applications that focus on innovation, job creation, and export potential, particularly in sectors that align with national growth strategies and regional development.
Examples of preferred sectors include:
- Advanced Technology & Software: AI, SaaS platforms, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure
- Agritech & Sustainable Agriculture: Precision farming, food-tech, and supply chain innovation
- CleanTech & Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, waste-to-energy, carbon capture, and green building technologies
- Biotechnology & Health Innovation: Medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and health diagnostics
- Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering: High-value export products and technical production processes
- Eco-Tourism & Experience-Based Tourism: Regionally focused, sustainable tourism models
- Export-Focused Products & Services: Businesses aimed at growing New Zealand’s trade footprint
Important: Low-scale retail, hospitality, and lifestyle businesses with limited growth potential or innovation are unlikely to meet visa approval criteria.
Investment Requirement
Applicants must invest a minimum of NZD 100,000 in a New Zealand business. This capital must be directed toward genuine business expenses and demonstrate the potential for long-term economic benefit. A higher investment and stronger business proposal may accelerate the path to permanent residence.
Funds must be transferred and invested within 12 months of initial visa approval.
Key Benefits
- Initial residence visa valid for 3 years (split as 12 months for business setup + 24 months for operation)
- Pathway to Permanent Residence after 2 years of successful business operation
- Fast-track residency option in 6 months for investments over NZD 500,000 and the creation of at least 3 jobs
- Spouse and dependent children (under 24) are eligible for work and study rights
- Free movement in and out of New Zealand during visa validity
- Access to New Zealand’s high quality of life, healthcare, and education systems
Application Process
The application process is accessible from your home country or any country where you reside legally:
- Business Plan: Submit a detailed business plan outlining your business model, innovation, financial forecasts, and expected contributions to the New Zealand economy
- Online Application: File your Entrepreneur Work Visa application through Immigration New Zealand
- Initial Approval & Entry: If approved, you’ll receive a 12-month visa to establish your business in New Zealand
- Operational Assessment: After 12 months, submit proof of business activity to be granted the remaining 24 months
- Residency Application: Apply for permanent residence after 2 years (or 6 months if fast-track criteria are met)
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum capital investment of NZD 100,000
- A clear, feasible business plan aligned with New Zealand’s economic priorities
- Demonstrated business experience or qualifications
- Proof of sufficient personal funds to support yourself and any dependents
- Meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements
Timeline
- Average processing time: 6-12 months
- Visa validity: 3 years
- Permanent Residency eligibility: after 2 years, or 6 months for fast-track applicants
Launch your business in one of the world’s most innovative and livable countries—New Zealand. With a stable business climate, investor-friendly regulations, and strong government support, New Zealand provides the ideal environment for entrepreneurs. Its strategic location offers seamless access to the broader Asia-Pacific market, making it an excellent hub for regional growth and global expansion.
